Influencer Hailey Okula’s Husband, Matt, Honors Late Wife 1 Year After She Died from Rare Childbirth Complication (Exclusive)

On March 29, 2026, Matt Okula marked a poignant anniversary as he remembered his late wife, Hailey, who tragically passed away just hours after giving birth to their son, Crew, a year earlier. Hailey, a well-known nursing influencer, died at the age of 33 due to cardiac arrest linked to an amniotic fluid embolism, a rare and often fatal pregnancy complication.

Reflecting on the bittersweet milestones of the past year, Matt revealed in an interview with PEOPLE that the anniversary of Hailey’s death is a particularly emotional occasion. “There have been a lot of bittersweet moments over this past year, and March 29 was a big one,” he noted. The pain of losing his wife intertwines with the joy of celebrating Crew’s first birthday, causing a complex blend of emotions that Matt has come to terms with.

Understanding the coexistence of joy and grief has been a crucial part of Matt’s healing process. He expressed acceptance of the fact that these emotions may continue to accompany him for some time. “I’ve accepted that, and I’m okay with it,” he said. Despite the profound loss, he remains proud of the progress he has made since Hailey’s death, affirming that he has learned to navigate the challenging emotional landscape with the support of family and friends.

Hailey was celebrated for her openness during her pregnancy, having documented her journey on social media. Her announcement of expecting a child in September 2024 was particularly poignant, as she and Matt had endured nearly two years of infertility before successfully conceiving through in vitro fertilisation (IVF). This remarkable journey, shared with her followers, underscored her commitment to transparency and her desire to help others facing similar struggles.

In the months following Hailey’s death, Matt has often reflected on her character, recalling her as “brave, open, real, always leading with her heart.” He revealed that when they were experiencing fertility challenges, he had suggested keeping their IVF journey private; however, Hailey was determined to share their experience with the world, believing it could provide comfort to others in similar situations. “We saw how impactful that was, a lot bigger probably than we thought it could have been,” he remarked.

In February of this year, Matt commemorated his first Valentine’s Day without Hailey by honouring her memory at her favourite beach where he scattered her ashes. Initially, he had intended to compile a video filled with memories of Hailey but opted instead to focus on creating new experiences with Crew. The decision speaks to his efforts to balance remembrance with the need to move forward.

Amidst the grief, Matt’s journey reflects a desire to keep Hailey’s spirit alive in both his and Crew’s daily lives. He acknowledges the importance of cherishing her legacy, while also embracing the future. This balance is crucial for his emotional well-being as he navigates parenting alone for the first time.

As Crew continues to grow, Matt is dedicated to raising their son with the values and love that Hailey embodied. He understands that while the void left by her absence is irreplaceable, the lessons and love they shared will always be a guiding light for him and their son.

The story of Hailey Okula serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of love. Through sharing their experiences, both in joy and in sorrow, Matt hopes to inspire others to find strength amidst adversity while also honouring the cherished memories of those they have lost.